RF/Microwave PCBs

RF/Microwave boards

These types of circuit boards are used when dealing with signal frequencies in the RF and Microwave range. They differ from other PCBs through the use of special materials that help propagate signal frequencies. Candor uses Rogers, Arlon, Teflon, and GETEK materials depending on the customers requests. We also work with hybrid materials as well.

Typically, someone would use an RF/Microwave boards if you are working with signal frequencies in the RF (radio frequency) and microwave range. These terms are used to explain the number of oscillation of an electromagnet radiation. Microwaves have a broader application use like in high-bandwidth data transmission systems.

A microwave PCB are different than standard circuit boards based on the type of material. Special material is used to broadcast signal frequencies. Typically that materials we would use is Arlon, GETEK, Teflon and Rogers, depending on what you request. We also have the ability to work with hybrid materials if needed.
With a microwave circuit board, uniform signal propagation is essential when you are working with RF and microwave frequencies. That is why we use a specific panel plating process. The result is a uniform plating across all boards.

On top of that, we use our continuous foil lamination press to help even the signal distribution. Compared to a conventional lamination press in which heated, thick steel plates are used, our press uses a continuous roll of foil. The foil is in between manufacturing panels that act as a heater right on to the panels. This helps achieve a smooth and consistent dielectric layer with your microwave PCB.

And last but not least, we use a cupric chloride etching system, compared to the ammonia based etchant conventional board shops use. Cupric etching leads to extremely consistent fine line etching, regardless of density of lines with no inverted pyramid. This allows for consistent etching from panel to panel, and batch to batch. With high frequency applications, you can have piece of mind and less testing time to make sure your boards are the correct impedance.

So if you are in need of a printed circuit board that needs to work with RF and microwave frequencies, then a Candor RF/Microwave board will be what you need. Request a quote today and get your microwave circuit board ready in no time.